New Delhi, Nov 23 (NationPress) The initiatives focused on skill development and innovation at IIT Guwahati have established a practical and results-driven approach towards enhancing expertise in underwater welding, offshore repair, and next-generation manufacturing. This was highlighted by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal.

The minister praised the partnership between IIT Guwahati and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), and witnessed a live demonstration of a 3D metal printing repair of a marine propeller, executed by the IIT Guwahati team during the launch of the Underwater Welding, Offshore Repair and Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing) initiative.

Sonowal remarked that the strong and visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has significantly bolstered India’s maritime capabilities and skilled workforce, enhanced port connectivity, expanded inland waterways, and accelerated the development of the blue economy. He noted that Assam and the Northeast are pivotal in this national progress.

“Assam has the potential to emerge as a prominent center for underwater repair and advanced manufacturing, and the Technology Innovation Hub at IIT Guwahati is set to become the core of this advancement,” Sonowal stated.

Emphasizing the strategic significance of the Northeast, the minister pointed out that the region’s natural waterways and geographical advantages play a vital role in developing an advanced maritime ecosystem.

“Technologies such as underwater welding, offshore repair, and 3D printing are crucial for establishing a faster, more reliable, and cost-effective maritime and ship repair network,” Sonowal affirmed.

“Relying on dry docking and imported components raises costs and delays operations. The solutions being innovated at IIT Guwahati pave the way for practical alternatives that enhance self-reliance,” he added.

He also expressed satisfaction over the successful certification of the first batch of seven candidates, who now possess qualifications recognized globally.

“We are dedicated to promoting innovation, strengthening maritime infrastructure, and generating skilled job opportunities for our youth,” Sonowal commented, adding that the ministry will positively consider outcome-driven proposals from IIT Guwahati and its collaborators under existing policy and financial frameworks.